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Is Mom’s
forgetfulness just
normal aging?
Have you noticed that a loved one might problems such as thyroid disorders or Patients with dementia that have other
be developing a memory loss? Is your depression can masquerade as memory chronic problems like diabetes or high
dad forgetting to pay the bills? Is your loss. A complete work up will uncover blood pressure often have trouble
mom getting lost driving? Is your spouse potentially serious but treatable problems. managing those other diseases. Knowing
repetitive? These are all potential early that dementia is playing a role helps in the
signs of a cognitive problem. What should If it is Alzheimer’s disease, the earlier it is way doctors approach who manages the
you do if you notice these things? caught, the better the medications work to medications and prepares meals,
slow the progression. for instance.
Maryjo L. Cleveland, M.D., Chief, Division
of Geriatric Medicine at Summa Health, Diagnosing dementia at an early stage “I know it’s scary, but if you are seeing
recommended, “The answer is, get allows the patient to participate in planning changes in your loved one that might be
an evaluation. See your primary care for the future. They can weigh in on issues related to memory, get them screened,”
physician, a geriatrician or a neurologist, like moving to assisted living or adapting shared Dr. Cleveland. “An accurate
someone that will take this seriously.” the home to age in place. It also allows for diagnosis and comprehensive treatment
creation of advanced directives (living will plan is the first step to navigating this
There are many good reasons to get and power of attorney) so that their wishes potentially difficult path.”
an evaluation. can be followed even after they are unable
to articulate them.
Sometimes, it is not dementia. Medical
Do you have a • Is he/she showing signs of cognitive If you answered yes to any of these
loved one at risk? impairment (forgetfulness, confusion, questions, talk to your primary care doctor
mood swings, disorientation)? to discuss your loved one’s current risks
When is it time to seek the help of a doctor and care needs.
that specializes in the treatment of older • Does he/she have trouble walking or
adults? Answer the questions to the right have falls? To learn more,
regarding a loved one to help you find out. visit summahealth.org/seniors
• Was he/she hospitalized within the or call 800.237.8662 to make an
past three months? appointment with a geriatrician.
• Does he/she take more than five
medications daily?
• Does he/she rate his/her health as worse
than others?
• Does his/her primary care physician
recommend he/she be seen by a
geriatrician due to the complexities of
caring for an older adult?
• Does he/she live alone or have minimal
support in the home?
8 Thrive - Fall 2016
